police world Edition 1 2013

Vol 58 No.1 2013

The magazine of the International Police Association, Section UK www.ipa-uk.org

2013 Membership Card Enclosed (see attached letter)

New - IPA Clothing Range Turn to page 2

Special Interest Group News Turn to pages 8-9

Mail Order: To order a polo shirt, hoodie or jacket visit: http://ipauk.stitchandprintstore.co.uk/home For all other items visit: www.ipa-uk.org/Shop - and click the ebay link. Items can also be ordered by telephoning 0115 981 3638 . Telephone orders can be paid for by cheque made payable to IPA and sent to BSAC, Arthur Troop House, 1 Fox Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 6AJ. Payment can also be made via a PAYPAL account.

NEW

IPA Section UK Clothing Range is Now Available to Order

Section UK have created their own clothing store currently selling polo shirts, hoodies and jackets. All products are sold with the IPA Section UK logo and can also be personalised. The current product range can be viewed below and will increase in the near future.

Polo Shirt £14 inc P&P

Hoodie £21 inc P&P

Jacket £44 inc P&P

IPA-WPFG Bronze Partner Polo Shirt £14 inc P&P

Colour variations available

Car Sticker £2 inc P&P

Cap £5.50 inc P&P

Tie £5 inc P&P

Lanyard £1.50 inc P&P

IPA-WPFG Bronze Partner Pin Badge £2 inc P&P

Notepads £5.50 inc P&P

Water bottle £2 inc P&P

Gift membership

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Pack of 10

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AlanJones

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For detailed product descriptions visit the website or contact BSAC by phone.

If you would like to comment about any item or aspect of the IPA Shop please email: mail@ipa-uk.org

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Police World Vol 57 No.4 2012

Police World The magazine of the International Police Association, Section UK

Contents Vol 58 No.1 2013

Editor Lee Hemmings e-mail: lee.hemmings@ipa-uk.org Deadline for article submission for edition 2 is 18 February, 2013. Dispatched early April, 2013. Advertising Michele Rai tel: (+44) 0115 981 3638 e-mail: mail@ipa-uk.org General enquiries IPA, BSAC, Arthur Troop House, 1 Fox Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham. NG2 6AJ tel: (+44) 0115 981 3638 fax: (+44) 0115 981 3349 e-mail: mail@ipa-uk.org

Features 4 Working on Your Behalf News from the National Executive 5 A Trip to Jerusalem Fred Boyd reports from the 20th IPA World Congress 6 Take Ownership Guidance on how to upate your records 7 A Privilege in Poland Steve Bretherton attends the 20th Anniversary of Section Poland 8-9 Going the Extra Mile The latest news and updates from the Special Interest Groups 10 Shipshape and Bristol Fashion Phil Foster was delighted to witness the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant. 12 IPA -WPFG Bronze Partner Update 13 Herts Go Stateside 9 Region members visit Region 56, USA 14 Miles and Miles of Magical Memories in Morocco Neil Hallam tells of the latest Motorcycle Group adventure 15 What a Willkommen Craig Regan explains how a Branch trip proved his decision to join was correct

Printed by Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Membership In Section UK, the membership comprises police officers, members of the Special Constabulary, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), Scenes of Crimes Officers (SOCOs), or equivalent terminology; Investigating Officers and Members of Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary. The Section has a unique mixture of police personnel who are still serving, retired, or in some instances, who have voluntarily resigned from the police service.* *For details of who can join Section UK, go to www.ipa-uk.org/Join-Us Joining the IPA costs just £35 and annual renewal is £28. Visit the website to learn about our promotional offers. A guide to Region numbers 1 - Scotland 2 - Northern Ireland 3 - Northern England 4 - Wales 5 - Midlands 6 - Central London 7 - South West England 8 - East Anglia 9 - North West London, Beds & Herts 10 - North East London & Essex 11 - South London & South East England

How do you rate this edition of Police World? What would you improve? What did we get right? What would you have done differently? Send your review to: lee.hemmings@ipa-uk.org Police World is a members' publication. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy. Furthermore, the views expressed in articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Communications Team. If you have any comments,

16 La Spezia Invitation

IPA members attend the 160th Anniversary of the Italian State Police

News 18 – 26 National News

A round up of the news from Section UK

28 International News

please contact the Editor: lee.hemmings@ipa-uk.org

International diary dates and more

Regulars 27 Competitions

i i

WIN copies of fantastic books published by Oxford University Press, and Troubador Publishing published by Frontline Books and Oxfo d Univ r ity Press

29 – 30 Classifieds

Adverts, special offers and notices

31 Diary dates

To apply either visit www.ipa-uk.org or request an application form from the general enquiries team.

Branch and regional events and dates

ISSN No: 0032-261X

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An Update from the NEC

At the XX IPA World Congress, elections took place for all positions on the Permanent Executive Bureau (PEB), resulting in changes at the very top and positions for Section UK members. Working on your behalf

P ierre Moulin (Switzerland) takes the reins as International President, taking over from Michael Odysseos (Cyprus) who was elected in 1994. Section UK's former Vice President Stephen Crockard, secured his place as Assistant International Secretary General (AISG) for a further three year term. Also, Steve Connor (UK Immediate Past President) was once again selected to serve on a Commission. Current UK Vice President Mark Kernohan is Liaison Officer to the ISC Chair on matters relating to the World Police and Fire Games (see page 12). Stephen Crockard and Steve Connor give Police World readers an insight into how the PEB and commissions operate and work on behalf of members. The International Executive Committee (IEC) is the supreme body of the Association and is composed of one delegate from each Section and of the PEB. It meets every three years at an IPA World Congress and between Congresses - once a year at an IEC Conference. Each Section and the PEB have one vote in the IEC. PEB members may be re-elected. The meeting last September saw a change to the rules surrounding elections. Section Hungary received support for its proposal that no one should be nominated or elected for any international position without the nomination and support of their own national Section. All posts are carried out on a voluntary basis. The PEB is responsible for the management of the Association and for the implementation of decisions taken by the IEC. It has the power to act on behalf of the IEC in any matter requiring immediate action. The International President and an additional member of the PEB represent the Association in and out of court. The PEB maintains an International Administration Centre (IAC) in Arthur Troop House, West Bridgford, co-located with the BSAC. This is under the control of the ISG and AISG and delivers the administrative functions of the international level of the Association.

In furtherance of the aims of the Association there are five standing commissions which support the work of the PEB. Candidates to be commission members are recommended by their national sections and appointed by the PEB for three year terms. I was a Vice President of Section UK, between 1999 and 2009 and a member of the International Professional Commission between 2003 and 2009. During this time, I administered the Arthur Troop Scholarship. I was elected to the PEB in 2009, as AISG and chair of the IPC. I retained this position at the elections in Israel in 2012, moving to chair of the International Cultural Commission (ICC). I am regular visitor to the IAC in Nottingham, with a budget for 6 visits a year, of several days duration. I am also in daily contact with the office by telephone, internet, or Skype. I deal with a large amount of the PEB, IAC and ICC work at home, via email. The secretariat is the most consistently busy part of the PEB and the staff members do sterling work for members as well as the heavy tasks imposed by the PEB members. Georgios, the International Secretary General, and I are different from other PEB members, in that we do our secretariat work as well as running international commissions. The international vice presidents each have a commission, and the International Treasurer (IT) and Assistant International Treasurer (AIT) deal purely with the finances. I was delighted in the confidence expressed by the Congress delegates to elect me for a second term. I believe that, as the Association has English as its working language, it is essential to have a native English speaker in the secretariat, be they from the UK, or another English speaking country. I have built up good relations with national office holders and I always try my

I have been a member of the International Commission for External Relations (ERC) since 2006. During that time, under skilful direction of former 1st International Vice President Daniel Condaminas, the ERC has gone from strength to strength. The ERC has existed in its current guise since 2003 when it was renamed from the old United Nations Commission (UNC) to reinforce its expansion ambitions. Using the UN title effectively restricted it, when it had already grown to encompass European Institutions (EI), and since then the Organisation of American States (OAS) has come on board. Unlike other commissions, the ERC is composed of a chair, currently Werner Busch (2nd IVP) and a Secretary (me) who manage the increasingly complex administration; the IPA has special consultative status with all the above organs as well as UNESCO, an aim that goes right back to the heart of our association and something the Founder, Arthur Troop BEM, strived hard to achieve. With such status and the demands on our representatives, the IPA must produce reports covering all its activities: cultural, social and professional at certain key periods. Coordination of all this ensures everything proceeds on track and the ERC remains fundamental to the IPA globally. This year the World Congress passed a motion designed to ensure that continuity for our commission representatives was guaranteed. Statutory requirements with regards our status require a representative at all times, so it has been a source of tension in the past when effectively our representatives were 'stood down', but were in fact still carrying out core functions. It has taken many years for these volunteers based in relevant cities to make inroads to their particular organisation and it simply wouldn't work if the liaison wasn't there. These hardworking friends enhance the reputation of the IPA and promote us as police officers who are serious about Human Rights. Steve Connor

best to live up to the motto of the Association, ‘Servo per amikeco’. Stephen Crockard

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Police World Vol 58 No.1 2013

A Message from the International President, Pierre Martin Moulin

Fred Boyd, National Treasurer, was honoured to be selected, along with Vice President Mick Luke, as official observers at the 20th IPA World Congress which took place in Israel during September, 2012. This article is a precis of what transpired during the 13 day conference. T his journey started quite some time ago when Vice President (VP) Mike Luke and I were chosen as the and large amounts of water were taken - thankfully we had a cable car for A Trip to Jerusalem

It is an honour and a pleasure to address you. I always want to use a special title when I address Section UK - the founding section

of our Association. This title commands respect. Sixty-two years of existence and let's admit it, what a good looking Section! It contrasts with the ‘retired’ age of our association. If I had to choose a trait to describe Section UK it would be strength. Your Section has not only given the IPA a solid foundation on which it stands today, it has played a key role throughout this journey, knowing how to adapt to changes of generations and support many Sections in the process of foundation and affiliation. If one is entitled to expect that a founder is a model, then we can say that Section UK has been and still is the model. The management of the IPA at the international level today needs the experience and support of Section UK to review its function and structures, and to help adapt them accordingly. I think we should have the courage to make some major changes to ensure a healthy growth. Thank you for your commitment. All my best wishes for prosperity in 2013. I would like to introduce my team:

transportation. Following this brief excursion, we arrived at the Merridan Hotel. Straight after check in it was off to the Dead Sea - not for a swim because it is near impossible - but to float and for some of us to cover themselves in the famously beneficial mud! This was an experience in itself and truly great fun for all who participated - even I floated! The next day we travelled to the Qumran Caves and, with the assistance of our guide, we learnt that this was the area where the Essenes wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls - which had been discovered in these caves in 1947. Our guide also pointed out the river Jordan border crossing which was allegedly the site where the original Baptism took place. Tuesday’s destination was the Golan Heights - the location of the six day war with Syria in 1974. This was the highlight of the trip for me. Further highlights included a cruise on Lake Tiberias, and a tour of the city of Acre - a place of much history and now a world heritage site. The most moving day of the entire trip involved a visit to Yad Vashem - which is situated on Memorial Hill. It is a Government institute established for the purpose of studying and commemorating the Holocaust. This was a very informative tour given by a very emotional guide which left everyone in a contemplative mood. Excursions continued with a guided tour of the city of Jerusalem - which included a visit to the 14 stations of Christ in the heart of the old town of Jerusalem the Wailing Wall. Saturday was officially the end of the Friendship Week and saw most of the participants leave for the airport. A few of us, approximately 28, had arranged a private tour to Bethlehem and with the organisational skills of Graham, our friend from Section Australia, we crossed into Bethlehem. With limited time to spare we visited the place of Christ’s birth and the site where the manger was said to have been. I would like to thank everyone who helped to organise this World Congress - both in Israel and in the UK. I most certainly must not forget to thank everyone who travelled from Northern Ireland who all helped make it a

official observers. I considered it a great honour to be selected and indeed attend along with other delegates from 2 Region, who included: (VP) Mark Kernohan, David Parkhill, Tommy Hutton, Terry Mashal and their wives. We met, in Tel Aviv, with IPA members from Section UK and other Sections from as far a field as Australia, Brazil and Japan. The conference was officially opened by the then International President Michael Odysseos. A moment of silence followed in memory of passed members. After general business and some housekeeping Michael Odysseos commented on the past year. Reports followed from members of the permanent executive bureau (PEB) with the meeting finishing late evening. The next morning started early with Mark Kernohan speaking about the World Police and Fire Games which is to take place in Belfast in August, 2013. His report was well received and the concensus for the event was of extreme optimism (turn to page 12 for an update on this event). Dinner and entertainment later that evening took the form of a buffet and an African Circus which was very enjoyable. The next morning commenced with appointment of members who were tasked to carry out the elections later that day - Chaired by the President of Australia, Michele Harris. Several motions followed from various countries including the Netherlands, Peru, Russia, Slovenia and of course Section UK. After further motions and debate the elections took place and the results can be seen in the announcements right. With all the official business complete it was time to relax a little. Saturday began with a beautiful cruise on the Red Sea taking us to the borders with Egypt Jordan and Israel. We were all divided into four ships and were free to explore. Later, some members chose to cool down with a swim in the Red sea. I booked myself onto the Friendship Week, which followed, to explore this fabulous part of the world a little more. It began with a very pleasant drive through the desert to Masada - the magnificent mountain top palace and fortress of King Herod. The heat was intense

The 1st International Vice-President, Gal Sharon from Israel. Chair of International Social Commission (ISC)

The 2nd International Vice-President, Werner Busch , from Germany. Chair of International Commission for External Relations (ERC) The 3rd International Vice-President, Kees Sal, from the Netherlands. Chair of International Professional Commission (IPC) The International Secretary General (ISG), Georgios Katsaropoulos, from Greece. Chair of International Internal Commission (IIC) The Assistant International Secretary General (AISG), Stephen Crockard , from the UK. Chair of International Cultural Commission (ICC)

The International Treasurer (IT), Romain Miny , from Luxembourg.

The Assistant International Treasurer (AIT), Wolfgang Gabrutsch , from Austria.

The immediate Past International President, Michael Odysseos , from Cyprus, is a non-voting member of the PEB as the Advisor.

truly memorable trip. Fred Boyd , Treasurer.

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Article

? Questions If you have any further questions please get in touch with us at the BSAC office via mail@ipa-uk.org or 0115 9813638

KEY MESSAGE

Throughout Section UK, members who have access to the internet are taking on responsibility for managing their own membership profile record. By doing so, they guarantee all communication sent from BSAC, Region or Branch reaches them on time and when relevant. They also help the Section create a profile of the broader membership which in turn helps the National Executive Committee (NEC) develop services and future strategy. Please keep your profile updated by visiting the Edit Profile page in the members’ section of the website. There, you will see a form similar to fig 3 below and printed right. Please amend any out-of-date information. Members without access to the internet can complete the form printed right, cut it out or photocopy it, and mail it to BSAC. Please only submit forms if you know your record is out of date.

Update User Details Title (e.g. Mr, Mrs) Surname

First Name/s First Name Initials

Changed your address? Primary Address



Town County

Postcode Country

fig 1

Telephone number (home) (work)

Mobile number

Email address (home) (work)

Date of birth

Your Police Service Details - Serving / Retired Your Rank Force

Your Force Occupational Status

Warrant Number Most recent station

fig 2

Date of retiring from force (if applicable)

Other Information List your interests or hobbies?

Section UK Specific Information *Date of joining IPA

(This data cannot be altered on the web form. In the event of error or omission, please contact BSAC or use this form to post an update).

Involvement within the IPA. The continued development of the IPA relies on volunteers. Please select how you will be able and/or willing to assist in the future:

fig 3

How to find the ‘Edit Profile’ webpage Step 1: Log on to the members section of the website. The page will state logged on, as shown in fig1 above, if this is done correctly. Step 2: Click on the ‘Edit Profile’ button as in fig 2. Step 3: The form, shown in fig 3, will appear. Please check if all details shown are correct and complete any missing information. Once amended click the save button at the bottom of the page.

Administration Development of Special Interest Groups Distribution of Promotional Material Hosting Visitors In Station Communication Involvement in Branch Activities Marketing and Publicity None Other (please state)

IPA Branch to which you wish to be attached

Would you like to receive Police World Magazine? Yes No (Removing the tick on the web form indicates you wish to cancel the mailed copy and are happy to receive a notification that Police World is available as a download instead). * Date of Joining – please check the date of joining shown on your new IPA membership card. If it reads 1.1.1995 then you need to update the records at BSAC. The reason the date is incorrect goes back to 1995 when all member records were imported from a database which held basic data sufficient only for mailing out to members and collecting their direct debit from the bank. There were a lot of gaps on records, including first names, gender profile, date of birth and date of joining. Unfortunately, the correct date of joining is still missing from some members’ records.

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Police World Vol 58 No.1 2013

Article

A Privilege in Poland

The museum in Biskupin

When Steve Bretherton received his invitation to attend the 20th Anniversary of Section Poland, at Bydgoszcz, as the representative of Section UK, he was delighted but admits having issues with pronunciation!

I admit to never having heard of Bydgoszcz before my trip and it wasn’t until I heard the airport announcement that I found out that it was correctly pronounced ‘bid-gosh’. A quick check of Wikipedia informed me that it’s a town in the North of Poland on the Brda and Vistula rivers. Historically it’s been part of Prussia, the Duchy of Warsaw and then Germany, before finally becoming part of Poland in 1919. This is the beauty of being a member of the IPA - it can take you to wonderful places not normally on the tourists’ map. The reason for my visit was to take part in the ‘Parade of the Nations’. This parade was to be in uniform and start from the hotel and then continue through the streets of the old town. I was also to attend the gala at the opera house in Bydgoszcz. As always my ‘bobbies helmet’ worked its magic and I found myself interviewed by the local TV station and photographed repeatedly with colleagues from across Europe. The itinerary we were given on arrival simply stated ‘Gala with invited guests to take place on the final evening’. This description didn’t begin to do justice to the three hour extravaganza that took place. The gala featured the police alpine band, a national pop group, multi-media presentations on the history of the Polish IPA and the presentation of national awards to members from across Poland.

dwellings - one extended family to each. The ramparts and entrance gate have also been rebuilt and the whole site recreates, in great detail, the living conditions and daily lives of the people who lived there. Torun, on the other hand, is a UNESCO World heritage site and is one of the seven wonders of Poland. As well as a cathedral and gothic town hall, it has its very own leaning tower, which forms part of the remarkably intact medieval walls that surround the town. Unfortunately our time in Torun was all too short but there is so much to see there that I’ll be heading back before too long. It was a pleasure and a privilege to take part in a real celebration of the IPA with colleagues who are immensely proud of their membership and what they have achieved so far as a young Section. The Polish IPA is incredibly active, promoting professional exchanges with other sections, including my own branch, Cambridgeshire in 8 Region. I’d like to thank Section UK for giving me the opportunity to take part in this fantastic event and to wish Section Poland all the best for the next 20 years. Steve Bretherton , Cambridgeshire branch

The event was rounded off with a banquet at our hotel. One strange feature of the evening was that the menu card appeared to show two different meals, which left me and my IPA friends from Gibraltar at a loss, given that we didn’t begin eating until 9.30pm. All was explained around midnight, when having worked through a hearty four course meal the second menu began to be served! I’m reliably informed, by those with a stronger constitution to mine, that goulash was still being served at 3.30am the following morning. IPA representatives across Europe were treated to a visit to a unique archaeological museum in Biskupin and the medieval town of Torun, as well as a walking tour of Bydgoszcz. As a huge fan of the archaeology television programme ‘Time Team’, I found the museum in Biskupin wonderful. The museum is sited on the largely intact remains of an iron age fort built on a marshy peninsula in Lake Biskupin. It was discovered just before the Second World War and due to its remarkable degree of preservation it’s been referred to as the Polish Pompeii. A sudden rise in sea level caused the fort to be deserted around 150AD and the rising waters were also responsible for preserving the timbers sunk into the lake bed. Archaeologists have rebuilt two of the original 13 long houses each divided into 10 or so

There was time for a group photo after the parade

Police World Vol 58 No.1 2013

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Article

The Triathlon Group, one of Section UK’s Special Interest Groups (SIG), completed its first international adventure, at the Stockholm open triathlon - August, 2012. GOING THE EXTRA MILE F our members of the Group raced in this standard distance triathlon (1500m swim / 40k bike / 10k run). race numbers in their wave were a different colour to everyone else Ian Tyers, Mike Griffin, Graham Kay and James Johnson

and they had their names on them! The competition looked lean - their wetsuits fitted like gloves. Their bikes were quality pieces of kit and they had those ‘go-faster’, pointy, super- aerodynamic helmets... somehow the Group were competing in the Swedish National Championships! One of the Tri-WAGS grabbed the announcer’s microphone and bellowed encouragement and good wishes to the English racers from the IPA. The race turned out to be a triumph. Ian described what happened, “ I started well and exited the swim ahead of the others. The Spirit incurred a two minute penalty on the bike for drafting (tucking in behind the guy in front to shelter from the wind). This meant he was just pipped at the finish by Gadgetman who finished in 2hrs 15mins as top Brit. Fishman had a mechanical problem with his bike and lost ground. I eventually crossed the line in 2hrs 27mins. I had completed a wholly unnecessary 4th lap of the Old Town, rather than finish after 3 laps like everyone else.” When Ian was asked how he had been so stupid, in literally going an extra mile, he declined official comment! And so it was over – with each of the Group finishing as top Brit in their age group (they were the only Brits competing). Gadgetman finished 32nd overall. The Spirit was 44th; Jellyman 71st (would have been 40th) and Fishman came in 86th. Personal bests were set, much fun was had, and Tessa thoroughly recommended it as a spectator friendly sport! After recovering the Group donned their IPA UK Section Triathlon Team polo shirts and headed off to police HQ for a great time with Stockholm members. The junior members of the team were also treated to a tour of the HQ building and given a ride in a mobile police command centre vehicle. Thanks are due to both Devon branch and 7 Region for their support of this trip in providing funds which were used towards the race entry fees and team polo shirts. The Group has been set up with a vision to compete with colleagues abroad at least once a year and to host colleagues at an annual event in the UK to create an international community of triathlete cops.

Having researched the location of IPA houses in european cities which also host triathlons, Ian Tyers, from Devon branch, made contact with Swedish President May-Britt Rinaldo, and quicker than he could change from a wetsuit to a pair of cycling shorts, he had booked the 14 bed IPA house in Rissne, Stockholm for the group. Such is the camaraderie in the Group that they refer to each other with nicknames: - Ian ‘Jellyman’ Tyers, Mike ‘The Spirit’ Griffin, Graham ‘Fishman’ Kay and James ‘Gadgetman’ Johnson.” The four were supported by their long suffering partners (affectionately known as the Tri-WAGS), William and Ollie - junior members of the team plus the Group’s cheerleader in chief, Cornwall branch Chair, Tessa Adams. On arrival the house manager, Britt-Inger, welcomed and familiarised the Group with the locality. The next day dawned and it suddenly occurred to the Group that their ‘planning’ had meant that they had not considered how they would get to the race start line with their bikes by 7am - bikes being banned on the tube train! The thought of a 45 minute cycle at 6.15am prior to a 2 ½ hr race was not attractive. A SOS message was sent to Brit-Inger and before long the Group’s bikes were delivered to the office of an IPA member at the central Stockholm police HQ - some three minutes from the start line. Help from their new IPA friends had averted a real problem. The day before the open event, the world’s best - fresh from the olympics - fought it out in a ‘sprint’ distance world series event around the city centre. The locals cheered Swedish silver medallist, Lisa Norden, to victory in the female event and the Brits celebrated a fine victory for olympic bronze medallist, Jonathan Brownlee – who moved into lead position in the world series. Race day for the Group arrived, as alarms woke the athletes at 5.15am. The bikes were collected from colleagues at Stockholm police HQ and competitors prepared for the race. The last minute instructions were bellowed out in Swedish - the Group was none the wiser but was confident as they had read their English copy of the pre-race instructions. ‘The Spirit’ then noticed that the

Shaun Keen and Ian Tyers

Linda Dabbs  If you are interested in joining the Triathlon Group please get in touch with Ian Tyers at: triathlon@ipa-uk.org

Three members of the Triathlon Group, along with four guests also took part in the London triathlon on the weekend of 22 - 23 September, 2012. Over two days some 13,000 competitors, including celebrities, took part in a range of events all based at the Excel Centre in Docklands. Plymouth member, Shaun Keen, had opted for the 1.5k swim, 80k bike and 10k run. The worst aspects of this choice meant that, firstly, he would have to plunge into the coffee coloured, aviation- diesel-tasting depths of the Royal Victoria Dock at 6.30 am. Secondly, he would not be able to join the others for a pre-event meal the night before. Fortunately for him this decision meant he had the best of the weather for the race and was done and dusted in 3hrs 35 mins. Shaun’s excellent performance saw him finish 17th out of 132 competitors, and 3rd in his age group. Devon member, Ian Tyers, beat his previous personal best overall time of 2hrs 24 mins. He ended the day 2nd in his age group. Linda Dabbs, also from Devon branch, despite facing the worst of the day’s weather, raced to a time of 2hrs 40 mins and finished an impressive 9th in her age group.

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Police World Vol 58 No.1 2013

Article

MORE SIG NEWS Caravan and Camping look back on a Great Year... T he Caravan and Camping Group organised several successful rallies in 2012. Staffordshire Branch held the 5 th Ice Cream Rally at the Red Lion Ice Cream Farm, Haughton, Awards ceremony in Portugal, October, 2012. Ralliers at the Driffield rally certainly experienced the Yorkshire Riviera at its best with a beautiful weekend of wall to wall sunshine, food fayres, farmers markets, historical houses and glorious beaches. Mercia who allowed the Group to use the facility at Force Headquarters at Hindlip Hall. The horse racing game was great fun and is available for loan at future events. Contact details below. At the Belford rally members discovered the origin

of the Singin’ Hinny - which is a type of scone cooked on an open fire. It gets its odd name from impatient children asking when it would be ready and being told by their mothers, “it won’t be long now, it’s singin’ hinny”. Singin’ referred to the sound made by the dough as it sizzled and Hinny is a term of affection in the North East of England meaning honey. Ralliers also enjoyed a trip on the Heatherslaw Light Railway - a 15” gauge railway that runs between the picturesque Northumbrian villages of Ford and Etal. Turn to page 31 for a full list of rallies for the 2013 season or contact: caravan-and-camping@ipa- uk.org or to read rally reports in more detail visit: www.ipa-uk.org/Pitch-Newsletter Motorcycle Group Turn to page 14 for news of the Motorcycle Group’s Moroccan adventure or if you are interested in joining email: motorcycling@ipa-uk.org Bowling Group The Bowling Group plans to hold a bowling festival during 2013 on the back of their successful inaugural event that took place in August, 2012. For more information contact Sean Hannigan at: bowling@ipa-uk.org Scuba Diving Group For an update from the Diving Group contact Mark Faunt: diving@ipa-uk.org

Stafford, in August. Fifty four attending members enjoyed a fish and chip tea in the marquee and battled through several rounds of knockout table top skittles. Ann Corbishley took first prize closely followed in second place by Diane Johnson, Kevin Hullah was a worthy third place. A book sale in the aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, held during this rally, raised over £118. Peter Corbishley reported some strange goings on in Derbyshire. He likened the county to the Bermuda Triangle as several accidents and mishaps occurred during the Fenny Bentley rally. A run in with an EU official over pitch markers was the first of many strange happenings. Peter said, “You couldn’t make it up!” - as mechanical breakdowns followed a broken ankle, a fall from a bicycle, a flat tyre and a non flushing loo! Peter added, “All I can add is...when travelling through Derbyshire, beware...” Dave and Sue Knight organised the first Driffield rally. Sue reported that Yorkshire was voted the UK’s Best Holiday Destination at the World Travel Interested in Self Defence Rob Stenhouse from North Wales branch has reached 'Group in Foundation' status for his initiative to form an IPA Special Interest Group for those interested in Defensive Tactics. He is asking like minded members interested in self defence and defensive tactics to help formalise the Group.

Kevin Hullah, the Group Secretary, brushed with celebrities in Chipping Norton after he allegedly witnessed Jeremy Clarkson collecting his Elddis from the Merryweather Farm caravan site storage area. Mr Clarkson, the Top Gear presenter and resident of Chipping Norton, must have had a radical turnaround in his opinion of caravans as these vehicles have often been involved in destructive comedy stunts on his TV show. Kevin also saw Julian Lloyd-Webber filling up his car at the garage when he went for his morning paper. The final brush with fame happened when the Ralliers were invited into the on-site marquee where a local band was rehearsing. One of our members got into a conversation with the band and discovered the drummer’s uncle was Billy Nevitt - one of the most successful jockeys of the postwar era, who rode several Derby winners. One of the main highlights of the Stourport rally was a horse racing night held in what must be a rare feature these days – a Police Club! This was by kind permission of the Chief Constable of West

Wanted Modellers and GeocaChers Clive Washbourne is a Railway Modelling enthusiast who operates in OO gauge. Clive believes it is beneficial to share specialist knowledge and has often been approached on this subject. He is willing to coordinate a discussion group so any member interested can contact him by e-mail at: cwashbourne@blueyonder.co.uk Andrew Hamilton, is looking to contact members interested in

Rob (right) sparring

Rob said, “I subscribe to the vision, ‘give police officers the skills they need to survive when attacked’. In other words, ‘keep officers safe on the streets’. This vision was held by people who were my inspiration. At present I run a defensive tactics club at Chester University, I teach Defensive Tactics in a firearms department and am a member of the IPDTA. I would very much like to set up an IPA Defensive Tactics Special Interest Group.” Rob has written an article on his inspiration and plans for the Group. To read this article visit: www.ipa-uk.org/Defence-Tactics Anyone interested in this Group should contact Rob direct on: DT@ipa-uk.org

Geocaching. This great outdoor pursuit is perfect for families. If you are a Geocacher or want to know what one is - turn to page 20.

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Shipshape and Bristol Fashion

Phil Foster was overcome with delight as he realised that his home would be smack bang in the middle of the largest waterborne event on the

Thames for 350 years. Phil recalls the story as he witnessed the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant.

L ast summer, over 1,000 vessels weather forecast for the day wasn’t good but we had decided that the best view of the Pageant would be with the wheelhouse windows, of Variatie, our retirement houseboat, folded down. The food was ready and the drinks chilled. Bunting and signal flags were hoisted and properly weighted. We had bells and whistles and my wife Jude had enough grin for both of us - as well as a set of union flag deely-boppers! I bought Variatie in late 2006 with a view to moving her into the heart of London. As my favourite city in the world, as well as my workplace, the aim was to see out my time to retirement and then enjoy the close proximity of such a vibrant city. Having got the essential work done, we finally brought Variatie to the Upper Pool of the Thames in August 2010, two weeks after retirement and totally unaware of the events planned for the Diamond Jubilee. So what a delight when the Thames Pageant was announced and it was to take place in my back yard. On the big day, the training ship Royalist, which was part of the Avenue of Sail, was just off our aft end (toward the rear) and the crew were going through their drills and being instructed on proper naval cheering to the call of “hip, pip- pip”. All the trainees on board had mastered the requisite circular motion of their headgear whilst cheering. My neighbours, either side, were erecting awnings to protect their guests from the participated in a flotilla on the Thames from Battersea to Tower Bridge. The

elements. Each of the athwart (at right angles) moored vessels had flags and bunting aplenty. The garden barges, Arts Ark and inshore vessels were similarly resplendent and showing a cheery face despite the dull skies and threat of rain. Every balcony and window overlooking the Upper Pool was either adorned with union flags or bunting and, like all

the walkways and riverside spaces, were crammed with people. The air itself was becoming electric with the murmur of conversation. The noise grew with the raised voices of imbibing spectators, the occasional testing of horns and bells and whistles that received replies from several others. Steve Connor, Immediate Past President, and his family were among other guests who joined us aboard. Our last guest arrived just before the Bell Barge arrived, announcing the arrival of the flotilla in the Pool and the commencement of the Pageant. By chance I’d been fortunate to have seen the Bell Barge a week before, and in somewhat better weather. What an amazing idea to have a barge with a constantly peeling set of bells aboard it as the herald of the arrival of such a varied flotilla. This wonderful sound announced not only the arrival of the Pageant in the Upper Pool but also

Phil and Jude

at a very stately pace, came Glorianna - a hand- built, 88-foot rowbarge and delightful reconstruction of a State barge. She was all resplendent in gold, looking every inch like a waterborne state coach. The rain was now with us in earnest. Although not heavy, it was constant. “Persisting it down” one might say. But Jude and our guests were out on the aft deck cheering and hurrah-ing the efforts of everyone involved. I had seen the Spirit of Chartwell on several occasions over the previous two years but today she had been given the most prestigious role of bearing HM Queen Elizabeth II from Chelsea downstream to us in the Upper Pool. The Spirit of Chartwell is an elegant, low-level vessel with an aura of opulence and past-times luxury. For today, and her most auspicious of roles, she had been re-fitted and re-styled to ensure she was fit for a Queen. To mark her royal role for the day, the bascules of Tower Bridge were raised in acknowledgement.

the start of the rain. Immediately behind the floating bells, and

The training ship Royalist

A view towards Tower Bridge

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With each passing flotilla the vessel sizes increased, their carrying capability increased, but their speed was kept at a respectable “dead slow”. We were without our usual movement on the Upper Pool and certainly not missing it. But all good things come to an end and they had certainly saved the best until last. Following a rousing rendition of God Save The Queen from the bedraggled choir on Symphony, accompanied by the surrounding crowds, fireworks signalled the closure of Tower Bridge’s bascules and the start of about 90 seconds of noise upon whatever was to hand to commemorate the end of an amazing Pageant, the likes of which will not be seen again by anyone alive today. Thankfully the last of my guests arrived about 30 minutes before the national anthem and the end of the Pageant and were thus able to join us with an appropriate celebratory bottle of champagne.

We’d had rain pouring into the wheelhouse and Jude, who had stood outside through the whole event, was soaked to the skin. The moisture on my face was more through pride than the rain. Throughout all of this, under an awning on a boat across the river, our 86-year-old Queen had stood and waved, smiled, enjoyed and glowed with amazement and pride. Over the years I have seen national pride at a variety of events but none equalled what we witnessed that day. Whether this pride was buoyed up by the event itself, the natural bowl shape of the arena we were in, or the huge size of the crowds - I don’t know for sure. What I do know is that all these people had turned out to cheer their monarch, show their pride in her reign and celebrate the stability brought to our nation by her continued rule. “Long live the Queen.”

And so they came, in what seemed like a never- ending river of craft; craft of all shapes and sizes, and progressively getting bigger. The barrage of cadets, each open boat bearing the flag of a Commonwealth nation, and all trying to maintain their position in the order of procession. They all looked to have made the maximum of effort with their appearance, an effort that was being thwarted by the weather. Of those who were closest, a look and air of pride was clearly visible on their faces and in their postures. The weather may be in charge of the day but they were in front of their Queen, their countrymen and the world and they would not be prevented or diverted from what was expected of each of them. The “Little Boats”, famous for their assistance in the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force and French army from the beaches of Dunkirk in June 1940, came next. Onboard each were the veterans of that campaign whose faces showed the same degree of pride that was evident on all the Pageant participants. A vessel carrying a band, orchestra or some form of musical entertainment preceded each flotilla and the massed crowd around us cheered each of these. The rain failed to affect their performances and “wet and bedraggled” means the same regardless of whether the performer is in full opera costume, military uniform or something a little closer fitting. Historical references abounded not just in the vessels and locations along the river route but also the music being played as Handel’s Water Music was amongst the chosen pieces. More than just the various flags of the individual nations represented the Commonwealth as vessels of significance and individuality took their place amongst the many others there.

The Spirit of Chartwell

Glorianna

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1-11 August 2013 in Belfast

Vice President Mark Kernohan reports that the final months of 2012 were busy ones for the IPA-WPFG Bronze Partner committee.

A s custodians of the sponsorship package, paid for by the IPA International Treasury and being supplemented by additional funds from Section UK and Region Northern Ireland, the committee held their first planning meeting last August. It was joined by Billy Saunderson, a member of the IPA International Social Commission from Section Ireland and Stephen Crockard, Assistant International Secretary General. Members from Section Ireland were also present as guests. Soon after, I met with Pete Loughins to progress plans. Pete, an IPA member of Belfast Branch since 1984, is Project Manager for Games Security and Games Operations and is responsible for planning, transfers, equipment, logistics, games control, medical and venue planning. I was was joined by Mandy Kernohan, Branch Secretary of Belfast Branch. News and circulars soon went out to members via the IPA Section UK website and IPA memberbase about volunteering to help with the Games and to get involved as competitors. 'Volunteer Now' were seeking enthusiastic and motivated people, aged 16 and over, to get involved in a variety of roles both on and off the field of play at the Games. Opportunities for volunteers to be a member of Team 2013 include roles within transport, registration, translation, sports venue branding, media, warehousing and many more exciting roles. The Region also started to collate a list of Region 2 members happy to host. To coincide with the date for registering to compete in the Games (1 November, 2012), IPA

was informed that it had been granted the naming rights to Lawn Bowls. It was also good news to hear that IPA member Leslie Busby from 2 Region Golf Society had been nominated as 'Administrator' for the Golf event taking place at Belvoir. I hope IPA members will support both events as competitors and volunteers. Meanwhile, other members of the Committee selected the venue for an evening function which will unite IPA members attending Games. Committee members Pete Connolly, Mandy Kernohan and Andy Spence visited three potential venues in the Belfast area. The venue details are being kept under wraps for now - the event will be exclusive to IPA members and by ticket only. The Committee is confident that the proprietor will provide everything required to supplies are being finalised and sourced. An IPA- WPFG t-shirt and a special edition IPA-WPFG pin badge being the first two of many items to come. Personally, I feel very lucky as the Section UK Vice President given the ‘social’ portfolio. (Each Vice President is given a role to match the International Vice Presidents – see page 5 for the role of IVP’s). The International Social commission has been led by Gal Sharon from Israel over the last 4 years and although her commission is based in the Mediterranean area it covers all IPA member countries. It has a responsibility to ensure maximum publicity for IPA at the World Police and Fire games. I would ask all Section UK members to share news about IPA’s involvement make the evening a memorable one. At the time of writing, IPA-WPFG items of

in the Games. We want to hear from volunteers, competitors and hosts. For an extended version of the news items referred to above, including contact information, visit: www.ipa-uk.org/IPA-WPFG-Bronze-Partner Mark Kernohan

IPA House News As well as representing Section UK in ‘sport’, Mark’s portfolio also involves IPA Houses. A bi-annual world house managers’ meeting took place in Holland in 2012 and the International Social Commission (ISC) is in the process of drafting a new directive on the management of IPA Houses. Each year Mark is responsible for submitting Section UK’s report to the ISC which outlines different types of events that have occurred in the Section. This helps share ideas and good practice internationally.

Charity Ball M o to r c y c le G r ou p at The Royal York Hotel Saturday 6 July, 2013. All proceeds to go to The National Police Memorial Day. Contact: secretary-general@ipa-uk.org

Section UK - National Charity 2013

Care of Police Survivors (COPS) has been our nominated national charity for the past two years. Earlier this year the NEC

and current chair of the NPMD, and were able to officially announce to him that IPA is adopting his charity during this coming year. IPA was proud to be associated with COPS during 2011 and 2012, and will continue to be formally represented by our colleagues from 5 Region at the annual remembrance event at the National Arboretum. I am sure that you will agree that it is also a privilege to be associated with the NPMD charity and that where the opportunity

considered three suggestions for our charity for 2013. The charities considered were COPS, the Police Treatment Centres and the National Police Memorial Day

with Comedian Mick Miller

(NPMD): all worthy causes. I am delighted to announce that for 2013 our chosen charity will be the National Police Memorial Day (NPMD) . As part of our NEC meeting in late September at York, the NEC joined the 3,000 strong congregation at the annual service at York Minster. At the conclusion of the service we met briefly with Inspector Joe Holness, the founder

arises members will lend support to fundraising activities in support of this, the only national event that recognises and sustains the memory of every fallen colleague over the generations. For more information visit: www.ipa- uk.org/Section-UKs-Nominated-Charity Tom Crozier , President

Tickets £50 per person £25 deposit

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